Ireland under-19 internationalist Luca Connell joins Celtic from Bolton Wanderers

Republic of Ireland under-19 internationalist Luca Connell has struck up a four-year deal to join Scottish champions Celtic.

The 18-year-old, who was named in the 30-man extended squad ahead of this month’s under-19 European Championships in Armenia, joins from Bolton Wanderers.

Connell, who can play at full-back or anywhere across midfield, made his breakthrough with the Trotters last season, making 12 appearances in all competitions.

“It’s unbelievable to sign for such a massive club known all around the world,” Connell told the club’s official website.

“It’s a dream come true, something I’ve dreamed of since I was a little boy. It’s crazy, and it hasn’t really sunk in.

“You can’t turn your head away from all the trophies and success Celtic have won recently, and being involved in the Champions League.

“There are a lot of good players here so it’s a challenge to break through. It’s something new and fresh.

“With the ethics of this club, all the youngsters will be pushing through. That’s healthy competition. We’ll all be mates off the pitch and on it we have to prove who’s the best.

“I had a look at videos of Celtic Park and the background of the club so it’s made me really excited to play. If you’re not excited to be involved in games here, then you need to hang your boots up.”

Connell was selected in Mick McCarthy’s senior squad for the Euro 2020 qualifiers against Denmark and Gibraltar but was forced to withdraw with a calf injury.

Manager Neil Lennon added: “He’s a very talented young player. He broke into the senior side with Bolton in the Championship.

"We’ve had a good look at him, have had good reports and he was away with the Irish senior squad training. The reports came back positive and we liked the look of him.”